Ep 3. The Moor

The Borgias season 1 episode 3 titled "The Moor" revolves around the main characters' political tactics and the aftermath of their actions. Rodrigo Borgia (Jeremy Irons) schemes to secure his position as pope by manipulating his fellow cardinals as he strives to gain a trusted advisor. Meanwhile, his children Juan, Cesare, and Lucrezia attempt to fit into the political landscape and consolidate their power.

The episode begins with the introduction of a new character, a Moorish prince named Djem (Elyes Gabel), who is brought to Rome as a political prisoner. The Borgias see him as a valuable bargaining chip in the political game, but the prince's tragic backstory soon reveals itself. Cesare (François Arnaud) is tasked with keeping the prince safe and secure, but Djem's presence quickly becomes a source of tension for everyone.

While Rodrigo tries to navigate the corrupt inner workings of the Vatican, his daughter Lucrezia (Holliday Grainger) attempts to use her feminine wiles to secure favors from powerful men. She is given a chance to shine when she is tasked with entertaining the French ambassador, whose alliance is crucial to the Borgias' success. Lucrezia proves to be more than just a pretty face, and her cunning schemes might just save her family from political ruin.

Meanwhile, Juan (David Oakes) finds himself in hot water when he tries to save a prostitute from the clutches of a powerful cardinal. His intervention backfires spectacularly, exposing the dark underbelly of the Vatican and causing backlash that could have serious implications for the Borgias. Juan's innocence and tendency to act impulsively are put to the test, and it's unclear whether he'll be able to right his wrongs and emerge unscathed.

As the episode progresses, tensions come to a head and the Borgias' carefully crafted plans begin to unravel. The Moor becomes more than just a political pawn, and the family is forced to confront the consequences of their actions. The power struggle between the Borgias and their enemies heats up, and it's clear that both sides will stop at nothing to gain the upper hand.

Overall, The Borgias season 1 episode 3 is an intense and dramatic installment in the series. The political intrigue and high-stakes power plays keep the audience on the edge of their seat, while the complex characters and twisted relationships add depth and intrigue to the storyline. With excellent performances from the talented cast, this episode is a must-watch for fans of historical drama and political intrigue.